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Friday, April 1, 2011

Baked Mostaccioli in a skillet - For Monet

I heard some terrible news earlier in the week, and later in the week it got much worse. My dear sweet blogging friend Monet - Anecdotes and Apple Cores told us her sister and nephew were in a car crash, her nephew was already gone. Her nephew was my daughters age, and all I could think about was, when her sister wakes up; how will she ever fill that huge hole that will be in her heart. Her sister unfortunately didn't wake up and now she is taking care of him in heaven.

Monet always inspires me with her beautiful writing - not to mention her soulful baking; I wonder if she even realizes what a gift she has. I wish I could be there to comfort her in person.

Hopefully this Mostaccioli recipe I'm dedicating to her will provide her a little comfort. I know when I need a hug in a bowl; this is the type of dish I reach for.

Heat a 12" ovenproof skillet to medium heat, add olive oil and garlic stir and cook for 2 minutes. Add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes, and saute for 30 seconds or so until aroma is being released from the herbs. Add tomatoes, water and noodles and stir until combined. Bring to a boil on medium heat and put lid on pan.

Cook for 14 minutes, stirring half way through cooking time.

Remove from heat; add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese and stir. Cover the top of the pasta with the mozzarella cheese.

Bake in 450 degree F oven for 10 minutes, until cheese melts.

I adapted this recipe from one I saw on American's Test Kitchen. They said it was ziti, not what I was used to eating as ziti, but it was one heck of a great idea. One pan instead of two or three, I love that.

My heart goes out to Monet and her family. So tragic. You're so sweet to dedicate this comforting dish to her. I was going to do the same with the carrot muffins I made from a recipe on her site. I know that she really appreciates all our thoughts and prayers.

Gina how incredible nice of you to make this comforting dish! It is truly heartbreaking what Monet has been through in the last several month. My son is 13 as well and this hit home for me on so many levels.

This is a wonderful tribute to Monet and her family. I have been praying for Monet and her family for strength and peace to heal the pain that they have been going through. Thank you Gina for this wonderful comfort food for Monet and her family.

Gina-this is such a beautiful, and touching post you dedicated to Monet. This horrible and sad tragedy is something you read about, or hear about but when it's someone you know, it is more heartbreaking then ever.

Your baked mostaccioli, truly is comforting and perfect for a time like this, and always, to share with family, and friends.Your lovely dedication truly comes from your heart!xoxo

Oh sweet woman...this brought tears to my eyes. Thank you so much. Your love and support means more to me than I can express. I only wish I could come over and taste a bite of this tonight. It looks just delicious. Thank you. You are a blessing to me, and you remind me to hold my head up during this dark time. Much love.

This was such a wonderful post dedicated to our sweet Monet. You are definitely right Gina, she is quite an inspiration to many bloggers and such a wonderful person. This dish looks like it could bring warmth to anyone!

Gina, what an amazing, amazing tribute post. My heart is aching for her and her family. They are never far from my prayers or my heart.Food really is so connected to comfort. This dish you made is so comforting and it looks so absolutely tasty and filling. I know you wish you could be there in person to give it to her and offer support. And I know she would be so grateful.

This is most definitely a comforting and wonderful dish.This is a beautiful post and I know Monet will appreciate all of your love and support. Such an unimaginable tragedy, my heart goes out to the entire family.

Gina you are such a sweetheart. There is so much love, support and good energy for Monet that I know she will feel it and hopefully comfort her even if just a little. Her story has touched so many of us. The Mostaccioli looks so delicious and definitely comforting. (Sorry I'm just stopping by, I forgot to update my Reader follow for your new blog.)